The European authorities have now increased customs duties on various US products, ranging from steel and aluminium products to agricultural goods. As of 22 June 2018, a list of US products, including motorcycles with a cylinder capacity above 500cc, are facing an additional 25% duty when entering the EU (1).

The application of the extra duties follows earlier announcements and the notification of the full list to the WTO, endorsed by the College of Commissioners. EU Member States have expressed their unanimous support for this approach. This rebalancing measure comes in response to the US decision to impose a 10% tariff on European aluminium products and a 25% tariff on European steel products, as of 1 June 2018.

European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström said: "We did not want to be in this position. However, the unilateral and unjustified decision of the US to impose steel and aluminium tariffs on the EU means that we are left with no other choice. The rules of international trade, which we have developed over the years hand in hand with our American partners, cannot be violated without a reaction from our side. Our response is measured, proportionate and fully in line with WTO rules. Needless to say, if the US removes its tariffs, our measures will also be removed."

From the outset in early March, the motorcycle industry has been calling for the sector not to be dragged into this trade dispute. It has done so in full cooperation, working together in Europe and in the United States, to engage with authorities and prevent damaging trade restrictive measures for the industry, for dealers and for consumers. “Unfortunately, whilst we understand the European Commission’s position, it is a fact that the EU/US dialogue failed to avoid the current negative outcome. As nobody wins in trade wars, we strongly call on a return to reason and for both parties to find a solution.”, said Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General.

Note for editors

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) represents manufacturers of mopeds, motorcycles, three-wheelers and quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe. ACEM members include 17 manufacturing companies and 17 national industry associations.